Supply Chain Research

Global container handling in 10 countries tracked by Panjiva climbed 10% in October vs. a year earlier to reach 32.8 million TEUs, making the 18th straight month of expansion. Mexico led the way with an 18% surge driven by its Gulf coast ports, while by contrast other South American countries struggled with Peru down by 2%. It was South Africa that did worst though, with a 4% drop due to a weaker domestic economy dragging on imports. Slow growth in Asia (South Korea rose just 1% and Hong Kong fell) may begin to reverse after an improvement in manufacturing sentiment in China.